Election 2012: What You Need to Know: Early Voting, Finding Your Polling Place, Registering, Returning Absentee Ballots and More

Where is my polling place?
The easiest way to find your polling place is by visiting the Iowa Secretary of State’s web site. Type your ZIP code into the search field, then your house address and so forth.

A list of Black Hawk County precints is attached to this article as a PDF.

I think I’m registered to vote, but I’m not sure. Where can I check?
Here’s how to check.

If I’m not registered, does that mean I’m out of luck?
No. You can register at the polls on Election Day. First, find your polling place. You’ll need to prove who you are and where you live; the easiest way is to bring a valid driver’s license with your current address on it. Here is a list of accepted forms of photo ID in Iowa.

All forms must be current, valid and contain an expiration date:

Iowa driver’s license

If you are unable to provide such documentation, you may bring an attester – a registered voter from your precinct – who will vouch for you.  Both you and the attester will be required to sign an oath swearing the statements being made are true.

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I received an absentee ballot but have not yet returned it. Is it too late?
No, but make sure it’s postmarked by midnight tonight, Nov. 5 and it must be received in the auditor’s office no later than noon on Monday, Nov. 12.

If you received an absentee ballot but now want to vote on Election Day, you must either bring your absetee ballot with you to turn in, or you will be given a provisional ballot at the poll.

What hours are polls open?
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Do I need to bring ID to the poll?

The Black Hawk County Auditor's office recommend all voters bring photo ID with them to the poll. However, if you are already registered, you do not need show an ID to vote. If you are going to register at the poll, you do need an ID (see above).

Voter cards are provided for reference purposes and to allow you the opportunity to correct any errors with your registration. A voter card is not a form of identification.